Strabane

Strabane is a town in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. It lies close to the border with the Republic of Ireland and sits along an inland transport corridor, connected by the A5 road to Derry/Londonderry and to towns further south.

The town has a historic center with traditional market town characteristics and several public buildings. A cross-border link is provided by the Lifford Bridge, which connects Strabane with Lifford in County Donegal, offering a tangible link between Northern Ireland and the Republic.

Historically, Strabane developed as a market town and industrial centre from the 18th and 19th centuries, with textiles and associated trades playing a significant role. In contemporary times, its economy is diversified, with retail, light manufacturing and services, alongside cross-border trade and economic links with nearby towns in the Republic of Ireland.

In terms of governance, Strabane was the administrative centre of Strabane District Council from 1973 until the 2015 local government reform, after which it became part of the Derry City and Strabane District Council.

Transportation in Strabane centers on road and bus links. The town previously had a railway station and passenger services, but these have ceased in the mid- to late 20th century.

Strabane hosts various community and cultural activities, and its cross-border connections contribute to its regional role in the northwest of Northern Ireland.